When embarking on a creative journey, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of groundbreaking concepts and high-profile projects. But what one industry leader wishes they had known earlier is that everything hinges on people.

Their advice? Look beyond the surface-level metrics and focus on the relationships you build. Mentorship, support, and camaraderie can elevate your work more than any technical prowess alone. Creative director Svenja Frahm advocates for recognizing the power in teamwork, while Georgina Macphail highlights that it’s okay not to have everything figured out.

Family and mentors play a pivotal role too. Sam Andrew credits his mother for continuous guidance and reassurance, emphasizing that having someone to bounce ideas off can be invaluable. Claire Petzal underscores the importance of making people feel uplifted by your presence, suggesting that this is more about trust than mere popularity.

Ultimately, Diego Limberti warns against underestimating the role of context and timing in creative success. The brilliance of an idea alone isn’t enough; it needs to resonate with its surroundings. So, here’s a tip from the professionals: prioritize people over projects for true creative fulfillment.